Sarasota officer placed on administrative leave amid criminal investigation

A Sarasota Police Department officer was placed on paid administrative leave during an ongoing criminal investigation involving the alleged misuse of agency technology. 

On Aug. 6 the agency became aware the officer allegedly misused law enforcement-only search databases, according to a statement issued by the SPD. An internal affairs investigation was immediately initiated and the officer was placed on leave on Aug. 7.  

The officer was not identified, but according to the statement they have been with the department since 2023.

Following the launch of this investigation, an agencywide audit was initiated to ensure agencywide compliance, the statement reads. That audit is currently ongoing.

“The Sarasota Police Department takes every allegation of misconduct seriously," the statement said. "The agency has a responsibility to uphold the public’s trust and confidence in officers and resources entrusted to the agency. Allegations involving the misuse of department resources are taken seriously and are thoroughly investigated to ensure accountability and maintain the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.”

The criminal investigation remains ongoing and no additional details have been released.